HDFC Bank Cracks Down on Temporary Deposit Practices to Inflate Quarterly Numbers

According to a report by Mint, HDFC Bank has initiated strict internal measures after discovering that some employees facilitated the creation of temporary deposit accounts at the end of the quarter. The aim was to inflate deposit figures using unutilised working capital limits from business clients, thereby artificially improving the bank’s financial position in regulatory and investor disclosures.

An internal email circulated towards the end of March outlined these concerns, citing the use of CASA/TD (current account, savings account/term deposit) entries created through CCOD (cash credit and overdraft) limits. These were reportedly done without “observable business logic or requirements.”

How the CCOD Mechanism Was Misused

Banks often extend working capital support to businesses through CCOD facilities. These facilities give businesses flexible access to credit, which they can draw down based on operational needs. However, as per the Mint report, some relationship managers requested clients to transfer unused CCOD funds into their bank accounts just before quarter-end.

This manoeuvre temporarily bolstered the bank’s total deposit figures. Within two to three days after the quarter closed, these funds were typically reversed. Customers were charged minimal interest, and branches reportedly compensated clients through incentives, neutralising the financial impact.

Why Businesses Comply With These Requests

The relationship dynamics between bank officials and corporate clients play a crucial role in such transactions. A senior consultant quoted in the Mint article explained that customers often find it difficult to say no to such requests due to their reliance on banking relationships and ongoing credit needs.

These end-of-quarter “window dressing” tactics have existed in the banking industry for years. While not outright illegal in all cases, they raise significant concerns about ethical banking practices, particularly when deposit figures are portrayed as genuine growth rather than temporary inflows.

Read More: HDFC Bank Share Price Hits 52-Week High Ahead of Q4 Results. 

Implications of Inflated Deposit Figures

Temporary deposits can have a ripple effect across various financial metrics. They may:

  • Improve the bank’s liquidity coverage ratios

  • Present enhanced net interest income for the quarter

  • Lower the loan-to-deposit ratio

  • Strengthen investor perception of the bank’s growth

However, these advantages are short-lived and can lead to significant misrepresentation of the bank’s financial health. Over time, repeated use of such practices could trigger scrutiny from regulators, damage institutional credibility, and even result in monetary penalties or operational restrictions.

HDFC Bank’s Internal Action and Public Stance

The internal communication reviewed by Mint made it clear that HDFC Bank disapproves of such conduct. Employees were warned of “necessary staff action” for non-compliance, and supervisors were instructed to actively counsel staff to avoid engaging in such practices.

A spokesperson from HDFC Bank confirmed that disciplinary actions had already been initiated against those involved. The bank is also conducting sensitisation programmes across branches to reinforce ethical banking standards and ensure all employees understand and adhere to compliance norms.

Conclusion 

This episode serves as a reminder of the pressures banks face in maintaining quarterly performance metrics, especially in competitive markets. However, it also underscores the importance of internal governance, transparency, and ethical conduct in preserving stakeholder trust.

HDFC Bank’s swift response to address the issue and enforce corrective measures reaffirms the importance of maintaining regulatory integrity within the Indian banking system.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Trump’s Executive Order Aims to Ease Burden of Stacked Auto Tariffs

In response to weeks of mounting pressure from automakers, parts suppliers, and dealers, US President Donald Trump signed two directives designed to soften the blow of overlapping tariffs on the automotive sector. These measures come amid growing concern that steep and overlapping import duties could lead to higher car prices, disrupt production, and threaten jobs across the US automotive supply chain.

Avoiding the “Stacking Effect” on Tariffs

The first executive order, signed aboard Air Force One, seeks to address the issue of cumulative tariffs. Imported vehicles had previously been subjected to separate tariffs on aluminium and steel, in addition to import duties on the finished cars themselves. This stacking effect, Trump stated, could result in an “excessive” duty rate, undermining the policy’s intent to bolster US manufacturing without unduly penalising the industry.

The order explicitly states that multiple levies “should not all have a cumulative effect,” recognising that the total burden might overshoot the administration’s targeted economic goals.

New Measures for Imported Auto Parts

The second directive involves a proclamation adjusting the 25% tariff on imported auto parts, set to take effect from May 3. To offer some temporary relief, carmakers manufacturing and selling completed vehicles within the United States can now claim an offset. This offset amounts to up to 3.75% of the value of American-made vehicles and is intended to partially cushion the cost impact.

This offset, however, will reduce to 2.5% in one year’s time and be phased out completely the following year. The intention behind this sliding scale is to incentivise greater domestic production in the long run. Notably, this benefit applies only to vehicles manufactured after April 3.

Read More: Indian Auto Exporters May Face ₹2,700-4,500 Crore Hit from US Tariffs: ICRA. 

A Temporary Reprieve, Not a Full Retreat

While these moves mark a partial step back from the original tariff framework, they are largely viewed as temporary. The relief on components is particularly time-bound, reflecting the administration’s continued goal of reshoring manufacturing jobs and reducing dependency on imports.

Nonetheless, industry voices have cautioned that if tariffs remain high in the long term, they could backfire, deterring investment, raising costs, and ultimately reducing competitiveness.

Conclusion

Even as the executive actions provide short-term clarity and financial relief, questions linger among automakers. Many remain uncertain about the longer-term implications of the policy changes and whether additional layers of regulation or tariffs may emerge in the future.

While the measures may momentarily stabilise operations and pricing structures, automakers are still calling for more consistent trade policies that enable long-term planning and investment.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

KBC Global Share Price in Focus; UK Subsidiary to Raise ₹793.75 crore for Liberia SEZ Project

KBC Global Ltd, a Nashik-based real estate and construction company, has announced a significant equity fundraising initiative through its wholly-owned UK subsidiary, Dharan International Limited (DIL). The total proposed capital raise is £69.975 million (approximately ₹793.75 crore), triggering investor interest and pushing the KBC Global share price over 2 per cent in early trade on April 30, 2025.

Dual Tranche Structure: Equity Shares and Convertible Bonds

DIL’s capital raise will be structured in 2 parts. The first comprises £64.175 million through the issuance of 64.175 million equity shares at £1 each to institutional investors in one or more tranches. The second involves £5.8 million via 58 convertible bonds, each valued at £100,000.

Based on an exchange rate of ₹113.45 per GBP, this fundraise will collectively amount to ₹7,937.5 million.

Funding Buchanan Port SEZ Project in Liberia

The funds will be exclusively utilised for DIL’s participation in the Buchanan Port Integrated Industrial Development Project in Liberia. The project is being developed in collaboration with the Special Economic Zone Authority of the Republic of Liberia and is positioned as a flagship maritime and logistics hub in West Africa.

This strategic move aims to bolster KBC Global’s global presence and tap into emerging infrastructure opportunities.

Management Commentary on Strategic Vision

According to a company representative, this capital infusion marks a key step in DIL’s international growth strategy. It underlines KBC Global’s commitment to delivering long-term shareholder value by expanding beyond Indian shores through infrastructure-led diversification.

The Liberian SEZ project is expected to unlock sustainable revenue streams and support the company’s medium to long-term financial performance.

Domestic Growth and Rebranding Plans

On the domestic front, the company is looking to ride the expected revival in Maharashtra’s real estate market post-General Elections. With an existing order book exceeding ₹260 crore, KBC Global is aiming to accelerate project execution and reduce debt.

Read More: Tanla Platform Shares to Trade Ex-Date on April 30: Interim Dividend of ₹6

Second International Order from Liberia

Beyond the Buchanan Port project, KBC International Ltd (Ghana), a step-down subsidiary of KBC Infrastructure Ltd UK, has entered into an MoU with the Liberia Special Economic Zone Authority. This involves the construction of residential complexes, low-cost housing, and commercial spaces valued at USD 12.5 million.

The project is set to commence in Q2 2025 and is expected to be completed within three years, making it KBC Global’s second major international order in Liberia.

Previous Entry into African Markets

KBC Global marked its entry into Africa in June 2024 when its subsidiary, Karda International Infrastructure Ltd, secured a $20 million civil engineering subcontract from CRJE (East Africa) Ltd—a unit of China Railway Construction Group. The contract, focused on soft infrastructure, firmly established KBC’s footprint in the African construction landscape.

About the Company

Founded in 2007, KBC Global Ltd has a diversified portfolio of residential, commercial, and contract development projects, primarily in Nashik. Its notable projects include Hari Gokuldham, Hari Nakshtra-II, and Eastext Township. The company’s recent international forays and capital mobilisation efforts reflect its ambition to emerge as a global infrastructure player.

Conclusion 

The strategic fundraising by KBC Global’s UK arm signals the company’s growing ambitions in global infrastructure. With key projects underway in Africa, it aims to strengthen both its international presence and financial footing.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

India’s Passenger Vehicle Industry Set to Cross 5 Million Units in FY26 Despite Slowing Growth

India’s passenger vehicle (PV) industry is poised to reach a new milestone in FY26, with a projected cumulative volume of five million units across domestic and export markets, according to Crisil Ratings. This would mark the 4th year in a row of record-breaking sales. However, the annual growth rate is expected to moderate to 2–4%, a sharp contrast to the 25% surge seen in FY23 following the pandemic-induced pent-up demand.

Domestic Market Continues to Drive Volumes

In FY24, the domestic market contributed roughly 85% of total volumes, reaffirming its dominant position in the PV segment. Exports accounted for the remaining share. While India’s domestic appetite for vehicles continues to fuel the industry, Crisil notes a slowing pace of expansion, reflecting maturing demand and base effect pressures.

EV Segment Growth Slows Despite Launches and Cost Cuts

The electric vehicle (EV) segment, though a focal point for innovation and investment, has seen decelerated growth. EV penetration remains modest at 3–3.5%. Despite declining battery prices and several new model launches, adoption has been restrained by high upfront costs, limited charging infrastructure, and consumer concerns over driving range. This has confined EV demand largely to urban buyers looking for second cars.

Premium EVs Enter Market, but Impact May Be Limited

While premium global players such as Tesla are expected to enter the Indian market, their influence on the overall segment is likely to be constrained by steep import duties. The premium vehicle segment itself comprises less than 10% of the overall PV market, further minimising their disruptive potential in the near term.

Rural Demand May Rebound in FY26

The rural market, which had been under stress, is expected to witness a revival supported by forecasts of an above-normal monsoon and potential interest rate cuts. This recovery is likely to aid demand for entry-level cars, which remain a crucial segment for volume-based growth.

Export Growth to Slow Amid Global Headwinds

Crisil forecasts export growth to taper to 5–7% in FY26, owing to macroeconomic challenges and a possible tariff imposition of 25% by the United States. However, the impact of such tariffs is expected to be minimal. Indian automakers may explore alternative markets such as Mexico, the Gulf region, and South Africa to diversify export destinations and maintain momentum.

Read More: Passenger Vehicle Sales Dip 10% in February Amid Slowing Demand. 

Conclusion

While growth in India’s PV industry is expected to slow compared to earlier post-pandemic years, the overall outlook remains steady. Factors such as a robust UV pipeline, recovering rural sentiment, and efforts to address EV adoption barriers will shape the industry’s trajectory in FY26. The sector’s long-term evolution towards premium offerings and market diversification also signals structural transformation beyond cyclical trends.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

India Can Save ₹14.7 Lakh Crore by 2034 by Replacing Coal Imports with Renewable Energy: Reports

According to the news report, India stands to save an estimated ₹14,70,673 crore (US$ 173 billion) between 2025 and 2034 by replacing its reliance on imported thermal coal with domestically generated renewable energy. According to a recent report by Climate Risk Horizons, achieving this would require the country to add 50 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy capacity annually—a target that aligns with the government’s existing energy goals.

Annual Addition of 50 GW Could End Coal Imports by 2029

The report highlights that by sustaining the pace of 50 GW of renewable capacity addition each year, India could completely eliminate thermal coal imports by 2029. Between 2025 and 2029 alone, this transition could result in foreign exchange savings worth ₹5,61,066 crore (US$ 66 billion), reducing the country’s vulnerability to volatile international coal prices and currency fluctuations.

Read More: India Surpasses Germany to Become World’s 3rd Largest Wind and Solar Energy Producer in 2024. 

India’s Current Dependence on Coal Imports

In FY24, India imported 206 million tonnes of thermal coal—around 20% of its total consumption—at a cost of ₹1,78,521 crore (US$ 21 billion). Over the past decade, thermal coal imports have increased by 58%, while their value has surged 124%, driven largely by global price volatility and a weakening rupee.

Risks of Imported Coal: Financial and Physical

The report underlines the risks tied to coal import dependency, ranging from geopolitical instability to natural disasters that can disrupt supply chains. Furthermore, the volatility of global energy prices imposes financial stress on power producers and end consumers. As India continues to grow, such vulnerabilities could only intensify unless addressed proactively.

Rising Power Demand Driven by Growth and Climate

India’s electricity demand is projected to rise significantly due to rapid urbanisation, industrial development, and the increasing use of electric vehicles and appliances. Per capita electricity consumption rose from 957 kWh in 2013 to 1,331 kWh in 2022. Climate change is also playing a role, with rising temperatures and frequent heatwaves pushing electricity usage higher during peak seasons.

Government’s Green Energy Target: 500 GW by 2030

To respond to these challenges and reduce its carbon footprint, India has committed to reaching 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030. The strategy includes adding 50 GW of renewable capacity annually until 2027-28. With 151 GW of solar and wind capacity already installed, along with hydro and biogas contributions, India is making steady progress toward its energy transformation.

Conclusion

The findings from Climate Risk Horizons make a compelling case: India’s transition to renewables is not only essential for sustainability but also makes strong financial sense. Reducing dependence on coal imports could buffer the economy against global shocks and redirect substantial capital into domestic development. With political will and continued investment, India is poised to reshape its energy future while securing massive long-term savings.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

8वां वेतन आयोग कैलकुलेटर: 2.86 फिटमेंट फैक्टर पर सरकारी कर्मचारियों का वेतन कैसा दिख सकता है

8वें वेतन आयोग की घोषणा के साथ, फिटमेंट फैक्टर को लेकर चर्चा तेज हो गई है, जो एक महत्वपूर्ण घटक है जो केंद्र सरकार के कर्मचारियों और पेंशनभोगियों के संशोधित वेतन और पेंशन का निर्धारण करेगा। 

विभिन्न रिपोर्टों के अनुसार, समाचार रिपोर्टों के अनुसार, फिटमेंट फैक्टर 1.92 और 2.86 के बीच हो सकता है। यह गुणक नई वेतन आयोग के तहत अद्यतन वेतन संरचनाओं और सेवानिवृत्ति लाभों की गणना करने की कुंजी है। 

आइए एक नज़र डालते हैं कि यदि फिटमेंट फैक्टर 2.86 पर सेट है तो आपको कितना वेतन मिल सकता है। 

फिटमेंट फैक्टर क्या है? 

फिटमेंट फैक्टर एक गुणक है जिसका उपयोग मौजूदा वेतन से संशोधित मूल वेतन की गणना के लिए किया जाता है। यदि फैक्टर बढ़ता है, तो मूल वेतन भी बढ़ता है, और परिणामस्वरूप, कुल वेतन भी बढ़ता है। 

इसलिए, यदि आपका वर्तमान मूल वेतन ₹18,000 है और फिटमेंट फैक्टर 2.86 हो जाता है, तो आपका संशोधित वेतन होगा: 

₹18,000 × 2.86 = ₹51,480 

यह संशोधित आंकड़ा तब महंगाई भत्ता (डीए), गृह किराया भत्ता (एचआरए), और परिवहन भत्ता (टीए) जैसे विभिन्न भत्तों की गणना के लिए नया आधार बन जाता है। 

8वां वेतन कैलकुलेटर: अनुमानित वेतन संरचना (परिदृश्य-आधारित) 

मौजूदा मूल वेतन (7वां सीपीसी)   संशोधित मूल वेतन (2.86 फैक्टर के साथ) 
₹18,000  ₹51,480 
₹21,700  ₹62,062 
₹25,500  ₹72,930 
₹35,400  ₹101,244 
₹44,900  ₹128,414 
₹56,100  ₹160,446 

नोट: ये मूल वेतन के आधार पर अनुमानित मूल्य हैं। वास्तविक इन-हैंड वेतन में अतिरिक्त भत्ते भी शामिल होंगे। 

8वें वेतन आयोग के तहत डीए क्या होगा? 

कर्मचारियों और पेंशनभोगियों दोनों के लिए चर्चा के प्रमुख विषयों में से एक महंगाई भत्ते (डीए) का मूल वेतन के साथ संभावित विलय रहा है। 

हाल ही में 2% की वृद्धि के बाद, डीए अब 55% है। पिछले वेतन आयोगों के तहत, फिटमेंट फैक्टर लागू करने से पहले मूल वेतन को डीए के साथ मिला दिया गया था, और इस दृष्टिकोण के 8वें वेतन आयोग के तहत भी जारी रहने की उम्मीद है। 

हालांकि, समाचार रिपोर्टों से संकेत मिलता है कि यदि विलय होता है, तो फिटमेंट फैक्टर कम हो सकता है। उदाहरण के लिए, 7वें वेतन आयोग के तहत, स्तर 1 पर न्यूनतम मूल वेतन ₹18,000 था, लेकिन 55% डीए विलय के साथ, यह बढ़कर ₹27,900 हो जाएगा। 

यदि फिटमेंट फैक्टर इस संशोधित राशि ₹27,900 पर लागू होता है, तो इसके परिणामस्वरूप उच्च वेतन मिल सकता है। 

निष्कर्ष 

8वें वेतन आयोग से सरकारी कर्मचारियों के वेतन और पेंशन में महत्वपूर्ण बदलाव लाने की उम्मीद है। यदि फिटमेंट फैक्टर 2.86 पर सेट है, तो कर्मचारियों को उनके मूल वेतन में संशोधन देखने को मिलेगा, जो तब विभिन्न भत्तों को प्रभावित करेगा। 

जबकि महंगाई भत्ते को मूल वेतन के साथ विलय करने के बारे में चर्चा जारी है, यह अंतिम वेतन संरचना निर्धारित करने में एक महत्वपूर्ण कारक बना हुआ है। 1.92 और 2.86 के बीच संशोधित फिटमेंट फैक्टर रेंज की क्षमता के साथ, सरकारी कर्मचारी अपने टेक-होम वेतन में उल्लेखनीय सुधार की उम्मीद कर सकते हैं। 

अस्वीकरण: यह ब्लॉग विशेष रूप से शैक्षिक उद्देश्यों के लिए लिखा गया है। उल्लिखित प्रतिभूतियां केवल उदाहरण हैं और सिफारिशें नहीं हैं। यह व्यक्तिगत सिफारिश/निवेश सलाह नहीं है। इसका उद्देश्य किसी भी व्यक्ति या संस्था को निवेश निर्णय लेने के लिए प्रभावित करना नहीं है। प्राप्तकर्ताओं को निवेश निर्णयों के बारे में स्वतंत्र राय बनाने के लिए अपना शोध और मूल्यांकन करना चाहिए। 

प्रतिभूति बाजार में निवेश बाजार जोखिमों के अधीन हैं, निवेश करने से पहले सभी संबंधित दस्तावेजों को ध्यान से पढ़ें। 

 

V-Mart Retail Board to Consider Bonus Share Issue on May 2

V-Mart Retail Ltd. has informed stock exchanges that its Board of Directors will meet on Thursday, May 2, 2025. One of the key items on the agenda is to consider and approve a proposal for issuing bonus shares.

As of 9:53 AM on April 30, 2025, V Mart Retail share price was trading at ₹3,301.40, 1.29% up, and the stock has declined 20.17% over the past six months but gained 57.30% over the past year.

Filing and Compliance Details

The announcement was made through an official notice dated April 29, 2025. The company stated that this proposal will be discussed in line with Regulation 29 of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015. If approved, the bonus issue will follow provisions under the Companies Act, 2013 and SEBI (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2018.

The update was shared with both the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and BSE Ltd.

Signatory and Documentation

The disclosure was signed by Megha Tandon, Company Secretary and Compliance Officer of V-Mart Retail Ltd. The company requested the exchanges to take the information on record as part of its routine compliance process.

Context

The outcome of the board meeting on May 2 will determine whether a bonus share issue will be approved. The company has not disclosed any further details at this stage such as the bonus ratio or record date, which are typically announced after board approval.

Read more: Vimta Labs Board Approves 1:1 Bonus Share Issue and Final Dividend.

Conclusion

V-Mart Retail has officially scheduled a board meeting on May 2, 2025, to discuss a possible bonus share issue. The decision, if taken, will be made public following the meeting as per regulatory requirements. Investors will need to wait for further announcements from the company.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Direct-to-Mobile Phones to Strengthen ‘Make in India’ Initiative

In a notable move set to reshape India’s digital consumption landscape, Free Stream Technologies, Lava International, and Human Mobile Devices (HMD) Global have jointly announced plans to launch Direct-to-Mobile (D2M) phones. This announcement, made just ahead of the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 in Mumbai, signals a fresh chapter in accessible digital media for the Indian public.

What Is Direct-to-Mobile (D2M) Technology?

Direct-to-Mobile (D2M) is an emerging broadcasting technology that allows live TV, video, audio, and text messages to be delivered straight to mobile phones through terrestrial television broadcast airwaves. What sets it apart is that it requires no Wi-Fi or internet connection. This breakthrough means that users can enjoy a variety of multimedia services—including entertainment, sports, educational content, and emergency alerts—without relying on mobile data or broadband.

Supporting a Developed India Vision

The introduction of D2M technology aligns closely with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India). By enabling uninterrupted access to information and entertainment across urban and rural regions alike, D2M phones hold the potential to bridge the digital divide. This also lends strong support to the government’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Design in India’ initiatives, especially as the new devices are expected to be powered by Tejas Networks’ Security Level (SL)-3000 D2M chipsets.

Collaboration Driving Domestic Innovation

The strategic partnership among Free Stream Technologies, Lava, and HMD Global is aimed at establishing a scalable ecosystem for D2M-enabled devices in India. Mr. Sumeet Nindrajog, Director of Free Stream Technologies, stated that the role of Lava and HMD is crucial in making these devices affordable and accessible to a wide consumer base. This collaborative approach also highlights the maturity of India’s hardware manufacturing and design capabilities.

Tejas Networks’ Role and Added Capabilities

Tejas Networks, a key Indian telecom equipment manufacturer, is playing a central role by offering the core network infrastructure that powers this new technology. This platform is designed not only to broadcast standard content but also to enable targeted advertisements, educational content, and real-time emergency alerts. This makes the platform both commercially viable and socially beneficial.

Backed by Academic and Government-Led Trials

The deployment of D2M technology is built upon successful proof-of-concept trials led by IIT Kanpur and Prasar Bharati. These trials confirmed the feasibility of D2M broadcasts across varied environments in India and demonstrated the readiness of the infrastructure for national deployment. This adds a layer of confidence to the initiative, suggesting that the country is now ready for a wider rollout.

Conclusion

The initiative also stands as a testament to growing collaboration between India and the United States in the field of digital infrastructure and emerging technologies. It showcases how 2 large democracies can jointly contribute to the global technological ecosystem through shared innovation and mutual interest.

Read More: Apple Begins Exporting Made-in-India AirPods: A Shift in Global Supply Chain

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

RBI Mandates Use of PRAVAAH Portal for All Regulatory Applications from May 1, 2025

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued a directive requiring all regulated financial entities to use the PRAVAAH portal for submitting applications related to licences, authorisations, and approvals starting May 1, 2025. This move aims to centralise regulatory communications and bring uniformity across the financial system.

What Is the PRAVAAH Portal?

PRAVAAH, short for Platform for Regulatory Application, Validation and Authorisation, is a secure, web-based digital platform introduced by the RBI. Designed to streamline the application process, PRAVAAH enables individuals and entities to file, track, and manage various regulatory requests through a single unified system.

Scope and Applicability

From May 1, 2025, the RBI mandates the exclusive use of PRAVAAH by all Regulated Entities (REs), which include:

  • Scheduled Commercial Banks (including Small Finance Banks, Local Area Banks, and Regional Rural Banks)

  • Urban Co-operative Banks

  • State and Central Co-operative Banks

  • All-India Financial Institutions

  • Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), including Housing Finance Companies

  • Primary Dealers

  • Payment System Operators

  • Credit Information Companies

These entities must submit their applications via PRAVAAH using the forms available on the platform.

Read More- RBI Monitors Sale of Bad Loans to ARCs Amid Rising Concerns. 

Reason Behind the Directive

Although PRAVAAH has been operational for nearly a year and has already processed around 4,000 applications, the RBI observed that many entities continued to use legacy submission channels. To eliminate delays, improve transparency, and enhance monitoring efficiency, the RBI has now made the platform’s use mandatory.

Process Guidance for Regulated Entities

In its official statement, the RBI clarified that instructions regarding portal access, application submission, and status tracking are available on the PRAVAAH portal itself. This ensures that the transition to the digital system is smooth and does not interrupt the compliance obligations of any entity.

Conclusion

With this directive, the RBI reinforces its commitment to a more digital, transparent, and efficient regulatory environment. The uniform adoption of PRAVAAH is expected to simplify the interface between the RBI and financial entities, ultimately strengthening regulatory governance.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

SEBI Postpones Deadline for T+0 Settlement Cycle for QSBs to November 1, 2025

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has officially extended the implementation timeline for the optional T+0 rolling settlement cycle for Qualified Stock Brokers (QSBs) to 1 November 2025. This extension follows feedback received from QSBs and discussions with market participants, aiming to ensure a seamless transition without altering the original regulatory framework issued in December 2024.

Extension Granted Following Industry Feedback

Capital markets regulator SEBI announced on Tuesday that the deadline for operational readiness for QSBs, initially set for 1 May 2025, has now been extended to 1 November 2025. The decision comes in response to feedback from QSBs and consultations with stock exchanges, clearing corporations, depositories, and brokers.

“In order to ensure smooth implementation, it has been decided to extend the timeline for QSBs for putting in place the necessary systems and processes for enabling seamless participation of investors in optional T+0 settlement cycle, to November 1, 2025,” the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) said in a circular.

Framework and Responsibilities Remain Unchanged

As per SEBI’s earlier framework, stock brokers who are designated as QSBs and meet the parameter of minimum number of active clients for qualification as QSB as on 31 December 2024 must implement the required systems and processes to support the optional T+0 settlement cycle. Additionally, newly recognised QSBs must adopt the systems within three months of being included in the updated list.

The regulator also instructed market infrastructure institutions (MIIs) to amend relevant rules and byelaws, ensure implementation of the updated provisions, and communicate the changes widely to both market participants and investors.

SEBI had first introduced the optional T+0 (same day) settlement cycle in the equity cash market for 25 scrips in March 2024, available only to non-custodian clients. Later in December, the scope was expanded to include the top 500 scrips by market capitalisation.

Read More: BSE to Introduce T+0 Settlement for Block Deal Trading from May 2, 2025

Conclusion

The extension to 1 November 2025 for QSBs to implement the optional T+0 settlement cycle reflects SEBI’s commitment to a structured and coordinated transition. While the timeline is revised, the regulatory framework and operational guidelines from the December 2024 circular remain fully in effect.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.